Southeastern Minnesota's campgrounds near Caledonia sit at elevations between 650-1,300 feet in the Driftless Area, characterized by steep limestone bluffs and deep river valleys untouched by glaciers. The region's humidity averages 70-80% during summer camping season, contributing to lush vegetation and active wildlife. Water crossings at some campgrounds can reach 8 inches deep following rainfall, requiring appropriate vehicles for access.
What to do
Trout fishing access: At Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground, located west of Caledonia, anglers find prime spots along the creek. "Small quiet campground with sites that back up to the creek. Very easy walking trail winding through the park and stream. An easy way to trout fish and enjoy the park," reports Bruce C.
Kayaking and tubing: Chushons Peak Campground offers direct river access for water activities. "Excellent Kayaking/Tubing. No rapids here folks, just a lazy river with nice sand bottom, no shoes needed!" notes Michael V. The campground sits alongside the Root River with a small beach area.
Hiking with elevation: Great River Bluffs State Park Campground features trails with significant elevation changes. "The trail system is very well labeled with maps along each trail. The trail system is mostly level and I would label as easy hiking with rolling hills," explains one visitor. The park contains two main viewing areas: King's and Queen's Bluff.
What campers like
Natural springs: Beaver Creek Valley State Park has a natural spring that draws visitors. "There is a natural spring here that was neat to see but the park seemed somewhat lacking. 4 stars though cuz camping anywhere is better than not camping," writes Anne K., highlighting the unique geological features.
Privacy between sites: Houston Nature Center offers well-spaced camping areas. "Wonderfully quiet and safe. Had bathrooms and showers. Right at the end of the root river state trail. Singing toads at night. Very flat. Sites are spread out," explains April S.
Wildlife viewing: Perrot State Park Campground across the state line provides excellent nature watching. "We stayed here for one night in August 2020 en route to black hills. Nice site(number 80), good shade and privacy between sites," notes Kathy L. The park sits where the Trempealeau River meets the Mississippi.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Beaver Creek Valley State Park has virtually no connectivity. "We've camped at Beaver Creek quite a few times. The only thing to know is there is no cell reception because of the valley. This great if you want to get away from it all, but if you're staying a while and need to work, this isn't the place to do it," advises Kat C.
Water crossings required: Some tent sites at Beaver Creek require driving through water. "Site #30 was very long and narrow with a good jaunt to get to the restroom facilities. Be warned that in order to get to sites #27 through #37 you have to drive through some water. In September it was only about 8"," explains Anne K.
Drinking water concerns: At some campgrounds, water quality varies seasonally. "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways," reports Kayla F. about Blackhawk Park.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Houston Nature Center offers unique play areas for children. "Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more," notes a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Shady Rest Acres provides a hobby farm experience with animals. "They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens, bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs. You have to be 'pet friendly' if you stay here, because the chickens roam, the dogs make friends and the cats meander," explains Amy G.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for kids to cool off. "This campground is perfectly situated on the Upper Iowa River. Also has a 'pool'/man made pond with a beach all the way around it," shares Erin A. about Upper Iowa Resort and Rental, located about 30 miles south of Caledonia.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary widely in proximity throughout the region. "The west loop sites (where we camped) were a bit close together, but large and level. Even on a busy Labor Day weekend, the campground was quiet and peaceful. AT&T service was good, and T-Mobile service was very spotty," reports Deb M. about Blackhawk Park.
Electric site locations: At some campgrounds, powered sites put you closer to neighbors. "A lot of electric sites. Tent sites further back in the campground through multiple water crossings (ok for cars). Campsites beautiful wooded sites in the bluffs," advises Stephanie K. about Beaver Creek Valley State Park.
Flood plain awareness: Some camping areas near rivers experience seasonal flooding. "This place is a pretty great campground, and would be even better if it wasn't all under water this summer. Our site on the river was under water, so we got moved to another," shares Megan S., highlighting the importance of checking conditions before arrival at riverside campgrounds.
